Dr. David
Lehrer

Dr. David Lehrer is Director of International Development at the Arava Institute and leads the Center for Applied Environmental Diplomacy (CAED), an initiative advancing cross-border environmental cooperation in regions affected by political conflict. His work brings together applied research, environmental diplomacy, and on-the-ground implementation to address shared environmental challenges across the Middle East.

As Executive Director of the Arava Institute from 2001–2021, David played a central role in shaping the Institute’s regional and academic vision. Today, through CAED, he continues to foster partnerships between local communities, municipalities, NGOs, and regional stakeholders to advance practical environmental solutions while building trust and long-term cooperation.

CAED projects focus on sustainable infrastructure and climate resilience, including clean drinking water systems, decentralized wastewater treatment, renewable energy technologies, and sustainable agriculture initiatives for off-grid and underserved communities. Developed in collaboration with regional partners, these initiatives combine innovation with community-based implementation to create scalable environmental impact.

David’s academic research explores environmental management systems, sustainable development, and the economics of conservation. His work includes studies on ISO 14001 environmental standards, sustainability in the Dead Sea Basin, and the cost of nature conservation in Israel.

He holds a Doctorate from the Geography and Environmental Development Department at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev and a joint Master’s degree in Management Science from Boston University and Ben-Gurion University. He recently completed a postdoctoral engagement at Boston University.

In addition to his work at the Institute, David serves as Chair of the Board of Directors of Laguna Innovation, a company developing sustainable, zero-sludge wastewater treatment systems for decentralized and off-grid communities.